Yvonne - Volunteer Coordinator
Meet Yvonne: Our New Volunteer Coordinator at River Garden!
We are absolutely thrilled to introduce the newest member of the River Garden family, Yvonne. Taking on the vital role of Volunteer Coordinator, Yvonne brings a wealth of experience, a passion for community building, and a heart for supporting transformation.
To help you get to know her, we sat down with Yvonne to chat about her career, her love for Kevin Bridges, and why she believes River Garden is a place where "hope takes root."
A Lifelong Passion for Growth
Yvonne joins us after a distinguished 28-year career in education. From her early days as a primary school teacher to her recent 11-year tenure in higher education at the University of the West of Scotland—where she led the BA (Hons) Education programme—Yvonne has always been driven by helping individuals meet their full potential.
"I am still passionate about education, and supporting individuals and communities to meet their potential."
Why River Garden?
For Yvonne, River Garden is more than just a beautiful setting; it’s a community that dismantles stigma and nurtures recovery. She was particularly moved by a description she heard recently: that recovery allows someone to finally become "the person they were supposed to be."
A Vision for Our Volunteers
Yvonne believes that volunteering is a two-way street. While our residents benefit from the skills and friendship volunteers provide, the volunteers themselves find a deep sense of purpose.
- Community First: Yvonne’s goal is to enhance our sense of family through friendship and encouragement.
- Diverse Skills: Whether your passion is gardening, woodworking, cooking, or hospitality, Yvonne is eager to help you find your place here.
- A Reciprocal Journey: "As you give, you’ll discover how much you grow. Your role here matters!"
Getting to Know Yvonne (The Fun Stuff!)
Question
Yvonne's Answer
What makes you laugh?
A good comedy club—as long as the comedian doesn't talk to me! I avoid eye contact at all costs. I still love Kevin Bridges’ ‘hoose rice’ story.
Favourite way to relax?
Huddled around a dining table with family and friends, or a garden BBQ with homemade pizza.
Book or Movie?
Definitely a book! I prefer to visualise characters myself. (I'm still not convinced by Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher!)
Best Self-Care Tip?
Get outdoors. I’m not a marathon runner, but I love walking on Prestwick or Ayr beach to enjoy the fresh air.
A Final Note from Yvonne
"I can't wait to get started, to become part of this wonderful community supporting recovery, and to learn and develop as an individual and a professional. I don't think I have ever been wishing away the last few days of my Christmas holiday!"
Welcome to the team, Yvonne! We are so lucky to have you.
